There are some athletes who are naturally gifted, and it seems as though they are great at a sport without really trying. There are others that have to put in a lot of time and work in order to be their best. For Brooke Wright, she may be part of the second group, but it has not taken away from her love for the game.

“I have never been good at sports, but I grew to love soccer,” she said. “It takes hard work and dedication. You have to push others as well as yourself. You have to have a good mind set when you are practicing and, on the field, because it will affect the way you and your team play together. You must work as a team to be successful.”

Wright is a senior at Moore High School where she plays right back and defensive mid for the school’s soccer team. She is in her fourth year as a member of the team and says that her coach has had a positive impact on her as a person and an athlete.

“I would have to say that the highlight of my career in soccer has been creating the bond I have with the players and my coaches,” she said. “My head coach Jared Folmsbee is someone that I consider my second father. He jokes with you like a father would but also pushes you because he believes in your capabilities.”

While she looks up to her coach, Brooke says that there are a few other people that are big influences on her life.

“I have a lot of role models,” she said. “One of them is my brother. He has cerebral palsy, and he really shows how you can do anything you put your mind to. Also, my sister because she has been through some things, and she always pushes through. My mom and dad are very hard workers and always put family first and love their family unconditionally. And my best friend has helped me through so much and continues to make sure I’m okay and just does more than I could ever ask for. I would not be the person I am today without each one of them.”